Image from Wikimedia
So what do you do when there’s rain in the forecast? There was a time not too long ago you would have been stuck in the hotel with nothing to do. But you’ll be happy to know those days are past! From in-room amenities to aquatic attractions, there is tons to do on Okaloosa Island when the weather is wet. Discover the 20 Best Rainy Day Activities on Okaloosa Island!
Image Courtesy of The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island
Okaloosa Island’s #1 destination is The Boardwalk! Although some of the activities at the Boardwalk are outside, there are plenty of shops, restaurants, and things to do under cover and inside.
Take some time to laugh. Comedy shows take place on Okaloosa Island year-round. Venture across the Brooks Bridge to experience the Comedy Zone at the Block taking place on select dates.
Dolphins, seals, and gators OH MY! One of the most popular rainy day activities on Okaloosa Island, the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is open rain or shine. Experience exotic exhibits, live shows, and trainer talks that will fascinate the whole family. Learn more about the Gulfarium online at Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park.
MAXIMUM Magic Theater is the Emerald Coast’s premier magic show. Noah & Heather Wells perform masterful illusions on the beautiful Emerald Coast. Learn more about this acclaimed performance online at MAXIMUM Magic Theater featuring Heather & Noah Wells.
Between the Boardwalk, Destin Harbor, and Downtown Fort Walton Beach, there are plenty of places to shape on and near Okaloosa Island. From coastal boutiques to fishing outfitters, find a full list of places to shop on Okaloosa Island online.
A good meal can help take your mind off the grey clouds. One of my favorite rainy day activities on Okaloosa Island, choose from dozens of essential eateries serving up steamed seafood, artisan tacos, and even some indulgent desserts.
Fudpucker’s in Destin hosts a teen dance that your kids will love! Let your son or daughter co-mingle with peers in a safe space. With a strict zero-tolerance policy on drinking, drugs, and violence, Fudpucker’s Teen Night is a worry-free activity that may score mom and dad some cool points! Make your teen the “belle of the ball” at Teen Night with the Fudpucker’s Teen Night VIP Card!
Although some of Wild Willy’s attractions are outside, they still sport an impressive arcade and 4D movie theater indoors. SAVE on Wild Willy’s admission when you purchase tickets online at Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone.
The Okaloosa Island nightlife is some of the best around. The rain may put a damper on some of your favorite daytime activities, but wet weather has got nothing on the night!!
Rain or shine, the Destin Harbor has plenty to do and see! A stones-throw from Okaloosa Island lodging, the Destin Harbor, including the popular Harborwalk Village, offers all-ages shopping, dining, and entertainment!
Experience the thrill of live-action puzzle solving at Escape Zone 60. Escape rooms are the latest craze to hit the Gulf Coast; come see what all the fuss is about!
Part museum, part laboratory, and 100% fun for all-ages! The Emerald Coast Science Center, located in Downtown Fort Walton, hosts intriguing exhibits and frequent educational events that are sure to entertain the entire family.
Image from the City of Fort Walton Beach
Be transported back to the days before Netflix, smart phones, and yogurt in tubes. The Camp Walton Schoolhouse Museum offers a compelling look into the lives of school children and teachers of the early 1900s.
This arcade will have your kids hoping for a rainy day! Fat Daddy’s Arcade is a great way to entertain the little ones when bad weather strikes.
The Indian Mound Museum in Downtown Fort Walton Beach puts over 10 thousand years of Native American history on display.
Lots of hotels, condos, and vacation rentals like to offer indoor activities in the event of rain. Ranging from kids clubs and karaoke to trivia nights and movie screenings, these activities are usually included in the cost of your rental.
Yes, you came for the beach. But inclement weather may also provide an opportunity for quality time with friends or family. Throw down some cash at poker, roll the dice for a 12 hour round of Monopoly, or use that in-room DVD player to watch Moana with the kids (for the 1,000th time).
The weather may be a perfect excuse to treat yourself to some “me” time. Relax with an in-room massage from Mobile Massage Therapy, or head to one of the local spas for a top-down treatment that will melt your vacation stress away!
With several bases nearby, Fort Walton Beach is a military community. Take advantage of the local culture at the Air Force Armament Museum. Entry is free of charge, and exhibits feature fully-assembled military aircraft! This is one of the great family-friendly and educational rainy day activities on Okaloosa Island.
The best entertainment in the south east makes their way through Okaloosa Island on a daily basis. Al’s Beach Club & Burger Bar and KC’s Beach Bar in downtown Fort Walton Beach are a few of the top spots, but plenty more venues in Okaloosa Island offer top-notch entertainment!
